Sustaining Education: CMMB Kenya's WASH Program at Makele Primary

By Roy Mwangi

In the arid heart of Kitui County, where droughts are as perennial as hope, Makele Primary School stands as an oasis of education, determination, and the relentless pursuit of a brighter future. Since 1974, this institution has been a beacon of learning for the young minds of this community. Yet, the school has been plagued by a lack of access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene - challenges that, until recently, held back the promise of these children. Thanks to the relentless efforts of CMMB Kenya's Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Program, Makele Primary School is on a transformative journey towards a healthier, more promising future.

For over a year now, Mr. Dickson Wambua Omuu has been the resolute headteacher at Makele Primary School. With a total of 213 pupils, comprising ninety-five boys and 117 girls, this institution has been the lifeline for education in the region. As Mr. Omuu shared in an interview, "Even though we've stood tall for decades, accessing safe water, sanitation, and maintaining proper hygiene standards has been a recurring challenge for us.

With the support of the school, CMMB constructed Ventilated Improved Pit latrines (VIP Latrines) and installed water tanks and hand washing facilities. These installations were vital pieces of infrastructure, designed to bolster the school's efforts in maintaining health and hygiene standards.

The school now boasts four VIP latrines for females, four essential facilities built by CMMB. Mr. Omuu was quick to note the positive change, saying, "This has improved the dignity of our girls as they can now use the latrines in a dignified way. More importantly, infection rates have significantly reduced as the pupils have proper access to clean and safe sanitation."

In addition to the latrines, the hand washing facilities have played a pivotal role in enhancing hygiene at Makele Primary School. A tank installed by CMMB enables the school to harvest and store rainwater. This precious resource is used for cleaning, and drinking, further bolstering the school's commitment to hygiene.

Access to clean drinking water in schools is not just about quenching thirst; it is about improving cognitive function and maintaining hydration, especially in the harsh Kitui climate. As Mr. Omuu emphasized, "The availability of functional and private school toilets and hand washing facilities has positively impacted the health and learning outcomes of our students. Our girls, in particular, are reaping the benefits."

In a region where universal access to basic WASH services in schools by 2030 remains a formidable challenge, the actions of CMMB Kenya at Makele Primary School are nothing short of inspirational. Access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene is not just a necessity; it is a cornerstone of hope, health, and a promising future. Thanks to CMMB Kenya's WASH Program, Makele Primary School is proving that even in the harshest conditions, the power of education and access to water and sanitation can pave the way to a brighter tomorrow.